Nursing Elites

1. When using the Ballard gestational assessment tool on a newborn, which of the following tests should be performed after the first hour of birth, allowing the newborn to recover from the stress of birth?

• A. Arm recoil
• B. Square window sign
• C. Scarf sign
• D. Popliteal angle

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is Arm recoil. Arm recoil is slower in healthy but fatigued newborns after birth, making it best elicited after the first hour of birth when the baby has had time to recover from the stress of birth. This assessment helps evaluate neuromuscular maturity in newborns and is more accurate when performed after the initial recovery period. The other choices, Square window sign, Scarf sign, and Popliteal angle, are not specifically assessed using the Ballard gestational assessment tool and do not relate to the recovery period after birth.

2. A 30-year-old woman is 22 weeks pregnant with her first child. She tells you that her rings are not fitting as loosely as they usually do and that her ankles are swollen. Her blood pressure is 150/86 mm Hg. She is MOST likely experiencing:

• A. a condition unrelated to pregnancy.
• B. gestational diabetes.
• C. a hypertensive emergency.
• D. preeclampsia.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The symptoms of swollen ankles, tight rings, and elevated blood pressure in a pregnant woman at 22 weeks gestation are concerning for preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure and signs of organ damage, commonly seen with symptoms such as swelling (edema) and protein in the urine. It is crucial to monitor and manage preeclampsia promptly as it can lead to severe complications for both the mother and the baby.

3. What percentage of total body surface area has been burned in a 5-year-old child who experienced partial-thickness burns to his head, anterior chest, and both upper extremities?

• A. 45%
• B. 63%
• C. 72%
• D. 54%

Correct answer: A

Rationale: According to the pediatric rule of nines, the head and neck represent 18%, the anterior chest and abdomen 18%, and each arm 9%. By adding these percentages (18% + 18% + 9% + 9% = 45%), we find that 45% of the total body surface area has been burned in this child.

4. The healthcare provider is providing postpartum care to a client who had a vaginal delivery. Which finding would require further assessment?

• A. Perineal swelling
• B. Moderate lochia serosa
• C. Headache unrelieved by analgesics
• D. Breast engorgement

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A headache unrelieved by analgesics can be a sign of a serious condition such as preeclampsia, which is a life-threatening condition characterized by high blood pressure and often protein in the urine. Prompt assessment and intervention are crucial to prevent complications for both the mother and baby.

5. How should you assist with the delivery of the baby's head?

• A. Grasping each side of the baby's head and gently pulling to facilitate delivery.
• B. Placing your fingers on the bony part of the skull and applying gentle pressure.
• C. Carefully rotating the baby's head to face up during delivery.
• D. Placing the palm of your hand firmly against the back of the baby's skull.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: To assist with the delivery of the baby's head, the correct technique involves placing your fingers on the bony part of the skull and applying gentle pressure. This method helps guide the baby's head through the birth canal safely and effectively. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Grasping and pulling the baby's head, rotating the head, or placing the palm of your hand against the back of the baby's skull can potentially cause harm or complications during delivery.

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